Social media has given rise to an unprecedented level of competition in the music industry, so it can often feel like you’re struggling to gain any notable exposure, no matter how talented you are. Well, we’ve just found an opportunity for you that might change all that.
If you’re a budding UK-based artist, how would you like the chance to perform at the world-renowned Expo Dubai 2020 in February next year? Because that’s exactly what’s possible with Take the Stage, a new competition conceived by UK acoustic guitar company Lowden Guitars.
Yes, the very same brand which supplies the one and only Ed Sheeran is looking to find four aspiring acts to perform at the UK’s National Day on February 10.
These four artists will receive a comprehensive package to facilitate the experience, including return flights to Dubai and transfers whilst there, accommodation for three nights (February 8, 9 and 10), food expenses, an onsite sound engineer, lighting engineer and production technician, radio and press opportunities, a full festival backstage experience and more.
Each of these four acts will then be judged on their performances on February 10, and the winner will get the chance to work with Lowden’s founder and luthier George Lowden to create their very own bespoke, handmade Lowden guitar.
Entering the competition is simple, and totally free. Simply submit a 30-second video clip of yourself/your band performing, and fill out a short entry form at the Take the Stage website.
Your clip will be scored on technical ability, presence and performance, creativity and uniqueness, song choice and suitability, and whether you’d be a suitable act to sign, book, play with or support. So pick the best song you’ve got in your arsenal and perform your heart out. It might just land you a slot at the Expo Dubai 2020, and indeed, it might even lead to you designing your own guitar.
Expo Dubai 2020 is a massive celebration of humankind’s innovation, resilience, creativity and culture, and sees over 190 nations take part over its six-month duration. For an idea of scale, since its grand opening on October 1, 2021, the event has attracted millions of visitors, so it goes without saying that this is a brilliant opportunity to gain some exposure.
And with a host of musicians, entertainers and innovators from across the commonwealth also set to make appearances on the UK’s National Day, there’s also a chance to do some networking with some notable music industry figures while you’re there.
“Through Lowden’s Take the Stage competition, supported by the UK Department for International Trade, we want to support and showcase some of the most promising up-and-coming talent from across Britain,” says Lowden Guitars Managing Director David Ausdahl.
“Our judging panel – comprising a lineup of UK industry leaders – will choose four regional winners who will get the chance to take home a Sheeran by Lowden guitar and represent each nation within the UK onstage in Dubai. The overall winner will also have the opportunity to work with George Lowden and our team to spec their very own custom Lowden guitar. This is a priceless prize which we feel will be a highlight of an emerging musician’s career.”
George Lowden adds: “Sheeran by Lowden, Lowden’s collaborative brand with Ed Sheeran, was inspired by the shared goals of Ed Sheeran and myself to encourage the next generation of guitarists with a quality guitar to grow their talent. We know first-hand the difference a quality guitar makes in the hands of a player at any level and are pleased to give four up and coming musicians the unique opportunity to win a quality Lowden guitar.”
For more information, and to make your entry, head to Take the Stage.